In the midst of LSU’s collapse last season, quarterback Michael Van Buren emerged as a bright spot. The sophomore completed 62.3% of his passes for 1,010 yards, with eight touchdowns to two interceptions, and added 129 yards and one more touchdown through the air. Where is the best spot for the signal-caller to land?
Liberty
Just four hours from his Baltimore hometown, the Flames offer a system that suits Van Buren’s athletic profile. In the spread option offense, he can force defenders to choose between crashing inside against the run or setting the edge. With sound decision-making, his speed and acceleration allow him to break long gains. Additionally, when defenses focus on stopping the run, it becomes easier for him to find receivers downfield.
Kennesaw State
The Owls, fresh off a ten-win season, are searching for a quarterback. KSU lost their top two signal callers, Amari Odom and Dexter Williams II, to the transfer portal, creating a major vacancy.
The up-tempo spread requires more than just a strong running game; the quarterback must command the huddle, and the fast pace leaves little room for error. The passing attack is crucial, making the task of replacing 3,381 passing yards and 36 touchdowns a challenging one. Would definitely take what he learned at LSU into the next step.
San Jose State
Head coach Ken Niumatalolo seeks a quarterback who can throw vertically, but mobility is also required to gain chunk yardage on the ground. Van Buren would succeed Walker Eget, who threw for 3,047 yards and 17 touchdowns. His tendency to protect the ball and maintain drives is a fit for the Spartans, who emphasize an explosive attack fueled by versatile athletes.
New Mexico State
The days of Diego Pavia and Jerry Kill on the sidelines feel distant. Tony Sanchez has inherited a program in need of help across the roster. This would be a tough assignment, but a season in Las Cruces could act as a launching pad toward a year at a Power Four school, increasing exposure and potential NFL interest. Conference USA isn’t the SEC, presenting a different challenge. Van Buren could still make the most of the opportunity.
Washington State
No matter who is the head coach, the Cougars consistently find ways to make the spread offense work and produce potent attacks. Van Buren, who was ranked No. 132 in PFSN’s CFB QB Impact Rankings, shows room for growth. While Wazzou is no longer a powerhouse, the rebuilt Pac-12 offers a chance to improve. Starting a quarterback with experience could be the first step.
